We just thought that flip-flops would become the shoe of the summer, an unexpected competitor emerges: the wedge sandal. Yep, the wedge heel is back, and fashion people are flocking to it. By Copenhagen to Paris the shoes appear everywhere in our feeds, but in a completely new version. Less bulky and 2010s, more minimalist, sculptural and surprisingly chic.
Value wedge heel may have had a bit of a dusty image in the past, but the new generation of wedges feels modern and… sophisticated On. Think about soft leather materials, transparent details, wooden soles and elegant silhouettes that fit effortlessly under linen trousers or a flowy summer dress. Moreover, they are much more comfortable than a classic stiletto, something we are clearly prioritizing this summer.
Why everyone is suddenly wearing wedges again
The comeback of the wedge sandal started off cautiously on the catwalks, but only really exploded after stylish insiders and celebrities like Sienna Miller and Iris Law were mocked. Since then it has been official: the wedge heel belongs again in our summer wardrobe.
And that’s actually not surprising at all. The shoe combines the best of both worlds: the elegant look of heels and the comfort of a flat sandal. Ideal for long summer days when you want something extra, but don’t want sore feet.
This is how you wear the wedge sandal in 2026
The secret of the new wedge? Styling. Where we used to associate the shoe mainly with skinny jeans and tank tops, fashion lovers now combine it with oversized silhouettes, airy fabrics and basics.
1. With a white T-shirt and trousers
A simple outfit immediately becomes more attractive with a pair sculptural wedges. Think: a perfect white T-shirt, loose trousers in taupe or sand color and an elegant wedge heel underneath. Minimalist, but with just enough fashion energy.
2. Under Bermuda shorts
The combination of Bermuda shorts and wedges feels surprisingly modern. Add an oversized blazer and you have the perfect look for a cooler summer day or a city trip where comfort is just as important as style.
3. With capris and an oversized blouse
Yes, capri pants are also making a comeback – and appear to go perfectly with wedges. Especially when combined with a loose-fitting blouse or a checked shirt look, the outfit gets that effortless 90s look that fashion insiders are currently loving.
4. Under a mini dress
Do you really want to go all-in on this summer’s boho vibe? Then combine wedges with a flowy mini dress or a romantic blouse dress. Wooden or clog-like wedges in particular give that typical casual Chloé aesthetic that everyone is currently looking for.
The new wedge heel is anything but boring
What this one comeback what makes it especially interesting is that wedges no longer feel like a practical shoe. They are exactly it statement piece of the outfit. Transparent heels, organic shapes and vintage details suddenly make the shoe fashion-conscious instead of predictable.
Massimo Dutti leather strappy wedge sandals
Sacha brown suede mules with wedge heel
Massimo Dutti sandal with leather wedge heel
H&M Sandals with wedge heel
H&M Flip-flops with wedge heel
Mango sandals with vinyl straps
Jude Lucille leather wedge thong sandal
Whether you choose one minimalist leather wedgeAn retro clog sandal or a copy with transparent details: one thing is clear. The wedge heel is officially back and this time flip-flops will probably stay in the closet for a while.
Floor Doornwaard (2000) is a freelance online editor at ELLE and writes about everything that concerns her: from the latest fashion trends and beauty launches to health news and shopping tips. She studied journalism and can be found outside working hours in her running shoes, behind the turntables or in the city on a sunny terrace.
